Experiences of Older Adults in High-Intensity Interval Training
Author Information
Author(s): Fridberg Helena, Wiklund Maria, Snellman Fredrik, Rosendahl Erik, Hedlund Mattias, Boraxbekk Carl-Johan, Lindelöf Nina
Primary Institution: Umeå University, Sweden
Hypothesis
How do older adults experience participation in high-intensity interval training?
Conclusion
Participation in high-intensity interval training can enhance older adults' self-efficacy and challenge negative age stereotypes.
Supporting Evidence
- Participants reported feeling invigorated and enjoying the challenge of high-intensity training.
- The group setting fostered social connections and motivation to continue exercising.
- Engagement in high-intensity training helped challenge negative age stereotypes.
- Participants expressed a desire to maintain an active lifestyle beyond the training program.
Takeaway
Older people can enjoy and benefit from intense exercise, especially when they do it in groups, which helps them feel more capable and connected.
Methodology
Constructivist grounded theory study with four focus groups involving 28 participants aged 65 to 78.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to participants' prior knowledge of the study's focus on exercise.
Limitations
Participants were self-selected and may not represent the broader older population, particularly those with lower educational levels or from diverse backgrounds.
Participant Demographics
Participants were aged 65 to 78, evenly represented by men and women, mostly living with a partner and holding a university degree.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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